Ruling: The LEAF is an affordable electric car that will free you from the gas stations. With its snappy acceleration and intelligent navigation system, getting to your destination no longer involves obnoxious gas fumes and choking hydrocarbons. Just don't stray too far from home as the LEAF only has a range of approximately 100 miles on a single charge.

Unlike internal-combustion engine-equipped vehicles, LEAF’s powertrain has no tailpipe and thus no emission of CO2 or other greenhouse gases while being driven. The Nissan LEAF can be charged up to 80% of its full capacity in 30 minutes when equipped with a quick charge port and using a DC fast charger. Charging at home through a 220V outlet is estimated to take approximately eight hours. The advanced lithium-ion battery pack carries an industry-competitive warranty of 8 years or 100,000 miles.

Verdict: So the Nissan Cube is definitely not for everybody. It's more of a love at a first sight thing. You either fall in love with it or you hate it. If you find yourself scratching your head and asking: "But why?", it's not for you. It won't grow on you. It won't try to. But if you're looking for a spacious compact wagon that has no shortage of character and plenty of interior space and a great MPG, this is the one.

Weaknesses:If you don't have access to 220V or offsite charging station, waiting for your Leaf to charge up is lengthy. Must plan trips very carefully so you are within range of a charging station when driving out and about. Apartment dwellers may not have a place to plugin at night.

Summary:The LEAF EV is a nice concept, but early adopters will have to plan their trips carefully and use all the available resources to find a charging station. Fortunately, range anxiety is being addressed with the ChargePoint app, more charging stations being installed everyday, and some forethought by the LEAF owners.

Driving the LEAF is almost like driving any other car. It's just much quieter and you are much more aware of energy consumption when you flip on the A/C, heater, or lights because they suck down battery power and reduce the driving range. Otherwise, the LEAF is just another car that can carry 4 occupants comfortably and carry your groceries home.